Flashdance to open at Shaftesbury Theatre in September

As I previously announced Flashdance - The Musical is opening in London’s West End at the Shaftesbury Theatre later this year. Tickets go on sale on 18th March and the current booking dates are from 27th September to 26th February 2011.

Set in Pittsburgh, Flashdance is about the hopes and dreams of 18 year old Alex Owens.  She works in Mawby’s Tavern as a “flashdancer” at night and is a welder in a steel mill by day.  Her ambition is to get a place at the prestigious Shipley Dance Academy and become a ballet dancer.

Some of the classic numbers featured include "Maniac", “Manhunt”, "Gloria", “I Love Rock & Roll” and the Academy Award winning title track "Flashdance - What a Feeling" as well as 10 original songs created especially for the musical.

The 1983 film of Flashdance starred Jennifer Beals and launched the torn sweatshirts fashion. Produced by David Ian, Flashdance is directed by Nikolai Foster, designed by Paul Farnsworth with choreography by Arlene Phillips. West End casting is still to be announced.

Hairspray is currently at the Shaftesbury and closes on 28th March 2010 prior to going on a national tour.